Outcome of Augmentation Cystoplasty and Bladder Substitution in a Pediatric Age Group

Objective: Aim of the study was to evaluate the outcome of augmentation cystoplasty and bladder substitution in a pediatric age group. Methods: Patient records of all children who underwent reconstructive bladder surgery between October 1999 and November 2007 were reviewed. Additionally, standardized interviews were performed to evaluate the postoperative outcome. Results: Augmentation cystoplasty and bladder substitution were performed in 19 and 6 patients, respectively. 21 patients underwent continent catheterizable vesicostomy. Postoperative urodynamics revealed a significant increase in bladder volume (median 400 ml) as well as a significant improvement in bladder compliance (median 13.5 ml/cmH(2)O). 90% of the patients were reported to be socially continent. Renal function remained stable in 95% and decreased in 5% of the children. Major complications were lower urinary tract calculi (39%), stricture or insufficiency of the continent vesicostomy (28%), and intestinal obstruction (9%). No malignancies associated to bladder augmentation or substitution were detected yet. Conclusion: Augmentation cystoplasty and bladder substitution preserve renal function and provide urinary continence in most children with intractable lower urinary tract disease. However, the procedures remain associated with numerous complications.